Tara J. (Horton) Miner

Tara J. (Horton) Miner, 45, of Winchester died unexpectedly on Friday, July 28, 2017. She passed peacefully while sleeping in the comfort of her home. Tara was born on July 12, 1972, the daughter of Sandra (Kenyon) and Richard Horton in Brattleboro, VT. She was educated in Hinsdale and graduated from Hinsdale High School, class of 1991. Later in life, Tara went on in her education and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from River Valley Community College in Keene, class of 2010.

Tara enlisted in the U.S. Army on Oct. 22, 2003. She served her enlistment and was honorably discharged. On May 9, 2015, she exchanged vows with Cole L. Miner. They were married with friends and family in attendance at the family home in Winchester and have been married for more than two years.

Tara worked at Southwestern Community Preschool for more than 15 years as a teacher. Recently, she had started working at Adventure Limousine as a secretary and fill-in bus monitor.

She enjoyed fishing, playing horseshoes, going for walks, dancing, and camping and campfires with her family. When time permitted, she enjoyed going on motorcycle rides.

Tara is survived by her husband, Cole L. Miner of Winchester; her children, Steven Willard of Winchester, and Amy Chapman and her husband, Quinn, of Winchester; her mother, Sandra Horton of Rural Retreat, Va.; siblings, David Horton of Fries, Va., Bruce Higley and his wife, Karen, of Brandenburg, Ky., Ronda Catron of Irmo, S.C., and Karena Cullop and her husband, Donnie, of Sugar Grove, Va.; and her grandchild, Dean Chapman. Tara is predeceased by her father, Richard Horton, who passed on July 21, 2012; and a grandson, Joseph Chapman, who passed on July 26, 2015.

In keeping with Tara’s wishes there are no formal services. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2017, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the funeral chapel. Military honors will be given at 6:30 p.m. Burial will take place later.

Flowers will gladly be accepted. However, the family would prefer donations be made in memory of Tara J. Miner to Tara J. Miner Children’s Fund, c/o TD Bank.

All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave., Keene (www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com)